All indicators

P-MACD

Jun 23, 2020

Static chart image
SignalsOscillatorsMoving Averages

The P-MACD indicator is a trend-following momentum tool designed to measure the relationship between price and long-term moving averages alongside the convergence/divergence of two distinct moving averages. By combining price-to-MA distance with standard MA-to-MA relationships, it provides a comprehensive view of market momentum and structural trend strength.

Usage

The indicator consists of several visual components that traders can use to identify shifts in momentum and potential trend reversals:

  • Line Crossovers: The Price Deviation line (PMACD) acts as a signal trigger. When it crosses above the Structure Baseline (MAMACD), it indicates a bullish impulse. Conversely, crossing below suggests a bearish impulse.
  • Zero-Line (Baseline) Crosses: When the Structure Baseline crosses the zero level, it signifies a crossover between the fast and slow moving averages (e.g., a Golden Cross or Death Cross). When the Price Deviation line crosses the zero level, it indicates price crossing the long-term moving average.
  • Momentum Histogram: The histogram displays the difference between price deviation and the structural baseline. Expanding bars indicate strengthening momentum, while contracting bars suggest weakening momentum.
  • Trend Cloud: An optional visual aid that highlights structural pressure. It is calculated based on the expansion and contraction between fast and slow market horizons.

Details

Unlike a standard MACD which only compares two moving averages, P-MACD incorporates price itself into the calculation.

  1. Price Deviation (PMACD): Calculated as (Price / Slow MA - 1) * 100, then smoothed. This represents how far price has overextended from its long-term average.
  2. Structure Baseline (MAMACD): Calculated as (Fast MA / Slow MA - 1) * 100. This represents the trend relationship between two different time horizons.
  3. Momentum Impulse: The difference between the PMACD and MAMACD lines, visualized as a histogram.

Settings

Main Settings

  • Reaction Speed (Fast MA): Sets the period for the shorter moving average used in the structural baseline.
  • Structural Horizon (Slow MA): Sets the period for the long-term moving average used as the primary anchor for price and trend calculations.
  • Noise Filtering (Smoothing): Adjusts the smoothing period for the Price Deviation calculation to reduce market noise.
  • MA Type: Choose between Simple Moving Average (SMA) or Exponential Moving Average (EMA).
  • Source: The price data point used for calculations (default is Close).

Visuals

  • Show Structural Pressure Cloud: Toggles the background cloud that visualizes the pressure between different moving average lengths.

FAQ

How do I interpret the P-MACD histogram?

The histogram shows the momentum difference between the price and the structural trend. Green bars indicate bullish momentum, while red bars indicate bearish momentum. Brightening or darkening shades reflect whether that momentum is currently accelerating or decelerating.

What timeframes are best for this tool?

Due to the default 200-period slow MA, the indicator is highly effective for long-term trend analysis on daily or weekly charts. For short-term trading, it is recommended to use lower timeframes like the 1H or below.

How can I access P-MACD?

You can get access on the LuxAlgo Library for charting platforms like TradingView, MetaTrader (MT4/MT5), and NinjaTrader for free.

Free indicator

Get free access to this indicator on the platforms below.

TradingView
NinjaTrader
MetaTrader 4/5

Unlock the entire LuxAlgo Library

Every indicator, every strategy, full charts, and complete access to Quant — our AI agent.